Julio Lugo will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday to repair a torn mensiscus. The Red Sox are not sure of the severity of the tear, but Julio is unlikely to make opening day, handing the starting shortstop job to Jed Lowrie.

This is a great opportunity for Jed. If he plays well while Lugo is out, he may win the job permanently. Holding him back will be Lugo's contract, which pays him $9 million a year through 2010. (There is a vesting option for 2011, but it doesn't look like Julio will reach the 2400 PA needed.) It's possible that if Lowrie plays well, the Red Sox send Lugo back to the position until they can trade him.